Political Rewind: Ga. redistricting steps forward; culture wars could be central in 2022

Credit: Stephen Fowler, GPB News

Wednesday on Political Rewind: The legislature is expected to move forward with redistricting maps likely to consolidate Republican control of Georgia’s U.S. congressional delegation for years to come. 

Our panel discussed the possible consequences. Will Democratic U.S. Representative Lucy McBath find herself in a risky position as the boundaries of her 6th District are redrawn?

Also, a controversial proposal to increase the size of the Gwinnett County Commission is off the table for now. However, the proposal's author, Republican state Sen. Clint Dixon, says it will be back when the regular session begins in January. Democrats claim Dixon wants to undermine the power of the currently all-Democratic commission by adding members.

Plus, controversial "culture war" issues are set to take a prominent role in messaging surrounding the 2022 elections. Clark Atlanta professor Dr. Kurt Young said the use of these issues, such as the banning of books by celebrated authors like Toni Morrison, show how culture is used a political tool.

"Culture is more than simply artistic expression: It's really a reflection of the very basic values that govern a society or within a society," Young said. "What we're seeing in Virginia, what we're seeing here in Georgia, is a reflection of these very deep-seated efforts to exercise power using cultural instruments."

Panelists:

Greg Bluestein — Politics reporter, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Maya Prabhu — Politics reporter, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution 

Chuck Williams — Reporter, WRBL-TV, Columbus

Dr. Kurt Young — Chair and professor of political science, Clark Atlanta University